Giving back to the communities where we live, work, and serve has always been a top priority for PSSI. This is why we partnered with the Multicultural Family Center in Dubuque, Iowa to support their Summer Teen Empowerment Program (STEP). We understand how vital it is to set children up for success and to give them the tools they need to thrive. STEP is a free, 6-week summer program that helps young people find pathways to success.
The STEP program provides teenagers with the support they need to build essential skills they will use for the rest of their lives. The educational programming includes activities, discussions, and skill-building exercises that will prepare them for the future and point them towards personal and academic success. PSSI strongly believes that hands on education is key to the success of our young people, and that is why we prioritize opportunities to invest in their future.
A cornerstone of the STEP program is personal development support where mentors teach important lessons about social awareness, goal-directed behavior, and optimistic thinking. As part of this effort, STEP pairs each student with an adult mentor who will serve as a guide through the educational process and provide each student with the support they need to meet their goals. Personal development is crucial to the wellbeing and growth of young adults, and STEP fosters that in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Our goal is that STEP will play a profound role in the students’ life journey by empowering them through education – arming them with valuable life skills to ensure their preparedness for professional life. The program’s holistic approach focuses on action areas beyond career readiness and school support through high school credits — students also learn about topics like financial literacy, social justice, brain health, employability, healthy relationships, and service learning.
PSSI is committed to community empowerment by helping all young people succeed — regardless of socioeconomic status. Every child deserves the support and resources to thrive in life, and PSSI is honored to help give the children in our communities the skills and lessons that will allow them to build successful futures.